The Gentle Whisper of God’s Spirit
Have you ever stopped to consider how God’s Spirit guides us? It’s a mystery that has puzzled me for a long time. I’ve often wondered if the Holy Spirit resides in my thoughts, feelings, or body. One thing is certain, however – His presence is undeniable.
The Power of Forgiveness
Take, for instance, God’s commandment to forgive one another. During Jesus’ public ministry, He regularly forgave people, much to the dismay of His critics. But Jesus took it a step further, instructing us to forgive our sister or brother not just seven times, but seventy times seven (Matthew 18:21-22). This lavish offering of forgiveness may seem radical, even unwise, by today’s standards.
The Barrier of Pride
So, what holds us back from extending forgiveness to others? Perhaps it’s our pride. Research suggests that when we’re full of ourselves, rather than being guided by God’s Spirit, we’re less likely to forgive others or accept forgiveness ourselves. We may view forgiveness as a sign of weakness, or believe it lets the perpetrator off the hook. But the Spirit urges us to take a different path.
Remembering God’s Mercy
Forgiving others becomes more understandable when we reflect on God’s mercy towards us. He forgave us while we were still sinners, and Jesus suffered and died to complete our redemption. As theologian Louis B. Smedes so eloquently put it, “To forgive is to set a prisoner free and discover that the prisoner was you.”
A Call to Action
Do you feel the gentle whisper of God’s Spirit prompting you to forgive those who have hurt you? Or do you want to hold onto your pride and refuse to forgive? It’s a choice we all must make.
A Prayer for Forgiveness
Dear God, forgive me for my unwillingness to forgive. Forgive me for squelching your Spirit. You have forgiven me of so much, and have provided your Spirit to guide me in wise choices. Help me listen authentically to your voice, and to accept the things that are of you. Amen.
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